Moama's Todd Murphy said it was a pleasant surprise to see his name in this year's Victoria Country under 17s squad. PHOTO courtesy Cricket Victoria

Murphy considered the selection, which will see him play next month for the Big V in Brisbane, as the ‘‘biggest step’’ in his career.

‘‘I wasn’t sure if I’d done enough to make the side,’’ he said.

‘‘It’s going to be a great challenge and one I’m really looking forward to.’’

As for how he went about his game to make the cut, Murphy said he had improved already across the past 12 months.

‘‘In a range of areas I’ve been able to learn from my mistakes — and I’m starting to gain a much better understanding of what works for me and what doesn’t, which has definitely helped,’’ he said.

Murphy said the Victoria Country squad should also put in a strong showing at the nationals — and then within a month following that it will be back to district cricket for Moama in the Goulburn Murray competition.

Playing the sport almost year-round hasn’t driven Murphy round the bend, though.

‘‘I love my cricket, so to keep getting the opportunity to play and train as much as possible is going to be good for my progress,’’ he said.

Murphy was confident Moama could progress as well.

‘‘I’m excited for what we can achieve,’’ he said of his home club.

‘‘Last year we struggled a bit with a really young side. This year everyone has more experience playing A grade and we pick up a couple of imports which will strengthen the side. The goal is to finish in the top four and from there anything can happen.’’